The five-door C-class hatchback Dodge Caliber, which looks suspiciously like a SUV, was first presented to the public in March 2005 at the Geneva Motor Show as a concept model, and debuted in pre-production form in January 2006 at the North American Bride Show.
A month later, as part of a motor show in Chicago, a "charged" version of the car, which received a sportier design, a powerful engine and improved technology, was rolled out for everyone to see.
Commercial production of the Dodge Caliber continued until November 2011, after which the hatch left the assembly line, however, since 2008, it has been updated annually. The most significant modernization took place in 2009, when the interior was "redrawn" and the technique was slightly improved, improvements in the remaining years were mainly limited to adding new options and body paint colors.
The exterior of the Caliber is designed in the aggressive style inherent in all Dodge models. The five-door looks austere, deliberately solid and not quite typical for its class - a heavy front end with massive headlights and a hexagonal "grill" of the radiator grill, a powerful silhouette with the "muscles" of wheel arches and a rounded roof line, athletic feed with pretty lanterns and a "curly" bumper ...
The hatchback in the "charged" version of SRT4 "flaunts" even more provocative looks - it is distinguished by a "daring" body kit around the body, a raised hood with three air intakes, a thick exhaust pipe, a wing on the fifth door and 19-inch polished "rollers".
Depending on the modification, the Dodge Caliber measures 4415-4427 mm in length, 1785-1800 mm in width and 1520-1535 mm in height. The distance between the axles of the car is 2635 mm, and its ground clearance varies from 175 to 180 mm.
Inside, "Caliber" is perceived as a real American due to the prevalence of simple lines and shapes and harsh plastics, which are widely found in decoration, but on the whole looks attractive and very modern. Behind a large four-spoke steering wheel with a massive hub in three "wells" are placed the dial gauges of the instrument cluster, and the center console with the correct shapes is reserved for the placement of the infotainment system and three solid "washers" of the air conditioning system.
The SRT4's originality boils down to a tachometer-led instrument cluster, a separate boost pressure dial and a more advanced on-board computer.
At the front, the Dodge Caliber has quite comfortable seats with good support on the sides and the widest adjustment intervals. In the rear seats, only two passengers will be able to comfortably accommodate (although there is plenty of space for three), and all because of the high transmission tunnel with a superstructure for glasses.
The trunk of the "Caliber" is small - its volume does not exceed 352 liters. But the shape of the compartment is close to ideal (the wheel arches do not protrude inside), the finish is practical, and there is a full-size spare wheel under the raised floor. In addition, the rear sofa, when folded in two parts, forms a flat area and brings the capacity to 1013 liters.
Specifications. In the Russian market, the Dodge Caliber can be found with three atmospheric gasoline "fours" with distributed fuel supply, variable valve timing technology, 16-valve timing and an intake manifold with a flow regulator. Engines with a working volume of 1.8, 2.0 and 2.4 liters generate a maximum of 150-174 horsepower and 168-223 Nm of torque, and they work jointly with a 5-speed "mechanics" or a continuously variable variator (there is no alternative front drive).
Depending on the modification, the hatchback accelerates from one place to the first "hundred" in 11-11.9 seconds, maximally "rests" at 183-186 km / h and "destroys" no more than 7.4-8.7 liters of fuel per 100 km of run in combined mode.
The head of the power palette is the "charged" modification of the "Caliber" called SRT4 - under its hood is a 2.4-liter petrol unit with four vertically oriented "pots", a turbocharger and distributed injection, producing 285 "horses" at 6000 rpm and 359 Nm available possibilities at 2000-6000 rpm. Such a car, equipped with a 6-speed "handle" and a front-wheel drive transmission, "shoots" up to 100 km / h after 6.7 seconds, gains a maximum speed of 245 km / h and consumes about 8.9 liters of fuel in the highway / city cycle.
The Dodge Caliber is based on the Chrysler PM / PK platform with a transversely based power plant and a high-strength steel body structure. The car is endowed with independent suspensions on two axles: in the front part there are MacPherson struts, and in the rear there is a "multi-link" (transverse stabilizers are installed "in a circle").
The hatchback features rack-and-pinion electric power steering, as well as four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated at the front) with ABS and other auxiliary electronics.
The distinctive features of the "charged" version of SRT4 are a more rigid chassis, shortened steering, a powerful braking complex (the diameter of the front "pancakes" is 340 mm, the rear - 302 mm), limited slip differential and sport settings of other components and assemblies.
Options and prices. In the summer of 2016, on the secondary market of Russia, "Caliber" is sold at a price of 300 thousand rubles, and its "hot" modification SRT4 cannot be bought for less than 600 thousand rubles.
As for the equipment, even the simplest car has in its arsenal air conditioning, ABS, ESP, four airbags, "cruise", electric drive and heated mirrors, heated front seats, power windows for all doors, audio preparation, metallic paintwork and some other equipment.
To stop the car using disc brakes, by the way, they are all equipped with ventilation.
Weaknesses and cons of Caliber
Let's start with the body, because of the high-quality assembly, the paintwork is not very susceptible to chips and scratches. The plastic bumper dubs in cold weather and becomes more vulnerable. Thin metal is used on the sills and fenders, which makes these parts rust quickly.
Motor
The gas tank lock does not tolerate severe frosts, if it freezes, then a breakdown is guaranteed. The front optics constantly sweat in rainy weather, and to replace the bulbs you need to dismantle the bumper, which is very inconvenient. With lamps, there are problems with an error in the control unit, which can only be thrown off at a service center.
There are many reliable components in engines, although at high mileage above 200 thousand kilometers, the likelihood of crankcase rust, failure of the fuel pump and exhaust manifold increases. The throttle assembly and the crankshaft pulley damper live 150 thousand kilometers each. There are many more nuances, but they arise when the mileage is above 150,000 kilometers.
Dodge Caliber gearbox
Mechanics after 150 thousand kilometers needs to replace bearing shafts and synchronizers. On the same run, the clutch release plate suffers, and sometimes the entire clutch mechanism.
The variator is much more reliable if the oil and filter are changed on it in a timely manner. Weak points are the blades of the position of the cones and the bearings of the shafts. Sometimes the splined joints of the clutches and the clutch pack suffer.
Suspension
The undercarriage is the most unreliable part of the crossover - the stabilizer bushings are not alive for more than 50 thousand kilometers, later the steering ends of the steering rack "die". After one hundred thousand, replacement of shock absorber struts, ball bearings, wheel bearings and silent blocks is required.
The steering is generally reliable, the power steering and steering rack elements live on average 200 thousand kilometers.
Price
The car is widespread in the secondary market with an average price of 400,000 rubles. It all depends on the condition and of course the engine. There is a sports version of the SRT-4, which is more expensive than the civilian. The price tag is, in principle, small!
The American hatchback Dodge Caliber is a good car for city driving, and because of its good suspension it will be able to overcome light off-road and therefore is suitable for both the city and the dacha.
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The technical characteristics of the Dodge Caliber crossover fully correspond to the concept of the Dodge brand. This five-door "K1" class car was first presented in the spring of 2005 in Switzerland. In 2006, production of this frankly aggressive machine began for global sales.
Equipping the Caliber with modern engines and gearboxes, regardless of road conditions, provides the car with excellent traction and speed characteristics, tangible fuel efficiency and low noise and vibration levels, which are inherent in world-class cars.
Exterior and interior
The powerful and frankly brutal exterior of the Dodge Caliber definitely points to American design. Outside, the crossover looks "muscular" due to clear forms, chopped body lines, corrugated sides, massive bumpers and narrow windows. The Chrysler PM / MK platform is used for the car. The generous 20 cm clearance ensures that the Caliber belongs to the SUV segment.
Model dimensions:
- body length - 4415 mm;
- height -1535 mm;
- width - 1800 mm;
- wheelbase length - 2635 mm.
It is believed that the practical station wagon Dodge Caliber hints at the "family" of the car. The simple, angular interior is also neatly laid out and very practical. The electrical equipment includes a CD-player, radio, air conditioner, cruise control system, electric mirrors. The car is equipped with airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and anti-theft equipment.
Characteristics of the car
Dodge Caliber is equipped with modern engines and gearboxes. Two engines of the World Engine series with a working capacity of 1.8 and 2.0 liters are capable of developing a power of 149 hp. and 156 hp. The CVT2 car variator belongs to the second generation devices. In AutoStick mode, the variator can be manually operated like a six-speed transmission.
CVT2 technology provides a 6-8% reduction in fuel consumption compared to a traditional 4-speed automatic transmission. In our country, recently the Caliber model was sold with a 2.0 (151 hp) engine, complete with a variator. The Caliber was discontinued in 2012. Its successor was the 2013 Dodge Dart.
Gasoline engines of the crossover were developed jointly with Chrysler, Mitsubishi and Huyndai. The complete set of the Caliber model can be presented at the buyer's choice with one of 4 types of engines:
- petrol V 1.8 L with electronic injection, capable of developing 148 hp at a speed of 6,500 rpm. The torque indicator at 5,200 rpm is 168 N / m. This engine comes with a manual shift and a 5-speed gearbox;
- a 2.0 liter V petrol injection engine with a power parameter of 156 hp. at a value of 6,300 rpm and a torque of 190 N / m at a frequency of 5,100 rpm. The unit is equipped with a continuously variable transmission - a variator manufactured by Jatco (a subsidiary of Nissan);
- diesel V 2.0 l with a Common Rail injection system. At a speed of 4,000 rpm, it achieves a power of 140 hp. A torque value of 310 Nm is generated at 1750 rpm. The 6-speed "mechanics" is installed to the motor;
- petrol V 2.4 l, equipped with an electronic injection system and having the highest power parameter of 174 hp. at a frequency of 6,000 rpm. The maximum torque of 223 N / m is provided at 4,400 rpm. This engine is equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
The Dodge Caliber has a fairly large luggage compartment - 648 liters. The steering is practically equipped with a hydraulic booster. A reliable braking system is represented by ventilated front disc brakes and rear disc brakes. On large seventeenth-diameter wheels, tires with a dimension of 215/60 are worn.
Many Dodge Caliber owners highlight the following car advantages:
- reliable and economical motor;
- high ground clearance;
- simplicity and availability of service.
Dodge Caliber is a car for those who wish to have a modern crossover equipped with completely new engines that guarantee excellent fuel efficiency and decent traction and speed characteristics. The high reliability and attractive cost in any configuration make this car attractive to the consumer.
In 2006, one of the most popular American hatchbacks of the Dodge company was released. It is easy to guess that we are talking about the Dodge Caliber, which has conquered millions of US residents with its simplicity and versatility. The car has many advantages, but it is also criticized quite often. We will now consider the technical characteristics and reviews of the owners.
SUV or hatchback?
When the car first hit the American market, many buyers were confused. The thing is that when you look at the Dodge Caliber, you get an ambiguous impression. From the outside, it is an SUV, but in terms of its characteristics, it is a hatchback. Some car critics are inclined to think that the car is completely unfortunate from a design point of view. But when you look at sales and customer reviews, the opposite is true.
Today, cars that can be considered universal are much more valuable. To easily overcome rough terrain and at the same time have a large luggage compartment - this is what many of us need. All of this can be obtained while driving a Dodge Caliber. The reviews of most of the owners of this car are positive, but the car is considered illiquid. It is inexpensive, but it is extremely difficult to sell it.
Brutality in everything
The aggressive appearance of the car is a quality that is inherent in all Dodge models. Caliber is no exception. Take a look at it: the wide and large grille with intersecting chrome inserts is striking. In the center there is a logo of the company - bighorn sheep, but most call it simply "ram". The body lines are chopped and simple. Thanks to this simplicity and angularity, the American car is immediately recognizable. Wide wheel arches provide for the installation of rubber of a larger radius, which many will like.
A clearance of 20 centimeters allows you to move with confidence not only on a poor quality roadway, but also where there is no asphalt at all. But with the review there is trouble, which is confirmed by numerous driver's reviews. The Dodge Caliber has reduced glass, and the hood is positioned slightly above the level of the fenders. This will definitely take some getting used to. But this can hardly be called a serious drawback, because today many cars have narrowed glass. Take the Jeep Grand Cherokee for example.
Dodge Caliber: specifications
From the moment of release until its completion, the manufacturer offered two engines to choose from:
- a 1.8 liter petrol engine with a capacity of 150 "horses". The torque is 168 Nm, and the acceleration to hundreds - in 11.8 seconds. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle - 7.3 liters. The power unit is paired with a manual 5-speed gearbox;
- gasoline engine 2.0 liters. The engine produces only 151 liters. with., but the tractive effort is slightly higher and is already 190 Nm. Fuel consumption is slightly higher, approximately 8.5 liters in the combined cycle. But this is mainly due to the fact that the internal combustion engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic.
It can hardly be said that there is a great choice here. It is quite modest, but such power units are quite enough for a comfortable ride in a metropolis due to low fuel consumption and on rough terrain, which is facilitated by a torque of 190 Nm. Engines and gearboxes showed their best side. With proper maintenance, they can run for a long time.
Let's take a look inside
Perhaps it is the interior of American cars that most often deserves the most criticism among experts. The fact is that the "Dodge" has a hard plastic, which, according to drivers, very often squeaks. At the same time, the dashboard itself is made with high quality and competently. Everything is clearly visible and is in its place. There are no extra functions and options, but everything you need is there. The armrest is comfortable and wide, the cup holders are located in the most convenient place.
Everything is done very simply, but at the same time it is correct, without unnecessary pathos and emphasis on high cost. At the same time, there are comfortable seats with many settings. The rear ones can even be set at a specific angle, allowing you to travel long distances without getting tired. The rocker of the manual gearbox is located very conveniently, it is slightly shifted towards the radio and is, as it were, on the rise of the tunnel. If we fold all the seats, we get 1013 liters of net volume, but in the classic form only 413. The audio system is pleasantly surprising. Very high quality sound, regardless of the configuration.
SRT Tuning Dodge Caliber
In the United States, many drivers turn to Street and Racing Technologies, which specializes in tuning. Visited boxing and "Caliber". After the experts put their hands on it, the car changed significantly in appearance. For example, a diffuser appeared on the rear bumper. Therefore, the "Dodge" has become somewhat closer to racing cars. The radiator grill was made even wider. There are additional holes in the bumper for improved airflow not only to the cooling system, but also to the brakes.
SRT has installed a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine under the hood. The pistons for the power unit were made cast, and the connecting rods were forged. Naturally, the changes also affected the fuel system, in particular, a new injector and an ECU were installed. At the exit, we managed to get 295 liters. with. and about 390 Nm of torque. A very good result, since initially the engine has only 170 liters. with. The least changes were made to the interior. The only thing that immediately catches your eye is the more comfortable seats with lateral support.
